Manila holds the distinction of being the only city in the country with a Chinatown district, which also happens to be its center of commerce, trade and finance.

Mayor Atienza called on everyone to participate on the Mid-town Festival celebration, which is one of the most colorful Chinese festivals being celebrated in the country, especially in Manila.

“Manileños should be proud of their Chinese cultural heritage,” Atienza said.

On the other hand, Rep. Roces, who is also the chairman of the Executive Committee of the Chinatown Development Authority (CDA) pointed out that the festival is an opportunity for Manileños, particularly the members of the city’s Filipino-Chinese community, to showcase the colorful Chinese cultural influences on the city.

“Manila Chinatown is one of the most colorful places, not only in Manila but in the whole country,’’ Roces said.

The traditional Chinese celebration kicked-off with a ride that started at the corner of Rizal and Recto avenues in Manila.

From the assembly point, the parade went through Ronquillo street and Quintin Paredes streets.

Dragon and lion dancers and colorful Chinese lanterns were the main attractions of the parade.

The event featured cultural numbers such as the Chinese Tribal Dance by the Chiang Kai Shek College and a song number by the Ambassadors of Light, among others.

Chinese costume and Chinese lantern contests were also part of the event.

The highlight of the festival was the ceremonial cutting of a giant mooncake, which was eagerly awaited by holiday revelers.

There was also the screening of the film “Silverhawk” as a bonus for the revelers.

Some of the sponsors of the celebration this year were Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.; Chinese Filipino Business Club; Philippine Chinese Charitable Association; Eng Bee Tin Chinese Deli; Philamlife; Binondo Suites Manila; Escolta Commercial Association, Inc.; Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp., Ltd.; Philippine General Insurance; and Star Chinese Movies.